Category: Vedas
Hi Beautiful and Peaceful Souls,
First of all, apologies for the delay in sharing this blog as I was ill. In my previous blog, I gave an Introduction of Shruti and Smriti (https://thepureknowledge.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-beginning-vedas-and-ancient-text.html)? So, as promised, today, I am going to share
the detail description of them. So, Let’s start…….
On the basis of origin of scriptures, Hindu scriptures are classified into Shruti and Smriti. Shruti are class of scriptures which were heard by sages in ancient times. They include four Vedas. These are compilation of Divine knowledge which was received by ancient rishis
through their spiritual practices. The word rishi means a seer, derived from dris i.e., to see.
He is the Mantra-Drastha i.e., seer of Mantra or thought. The thought was not his
own. He was the only
spiritual discoverer of thought, not inventor of Veda. Veda represents the
spiritual or intuition based experiences of rishi who disseminated this Vedic knowledge. The Vedic knowledge is
revelations. Vedas do not owe their authority to anyone. They are themselves an
authority as they are eternal, as they are knowledge of the Lord. It
is difficult to tell the exact age of Veda, but according
to “Vishudh Manusmriti” Vedas as well as universe was originated 1,96,08,52,976 years ago. Even,
Swami Dayanand Saraswati says, age of Vedas starts from the beginning of
creation. However, Max-Muller gave
the date of origin of Vedas as 1200 B.C which is debatable.
Veda is the collective term which indicates the four Vedas. They were written on palm leaves and barks of plants in Vedic Sanskrit. The great compiler of Vedas was Vyasa Krishna Dwaipayana. The Vedas are the oldest books in the library of man. The truths contained in all religions are derived from the Vedas and are ultimately traceable to the Vedas. It is the storehouse of Indian wisdom. The Veda contains the highest spiritual knowledge (Para Vidhya) as well as the knowledge of the world (Apara Vidhya). They give descriptions of various aspects of different subjects such as sciences, medicine, political science, psychology, agriculture, poetry, art, music etc. Lets discuss one by one about all the four Vedas.
Veda is the collective term which indicates the four Vedas. They were written on palm leaves and barks of plants in Vedic Sanskrit. The great compiler of Vedas was Vyasa Krishna Dwaipayana. The Vedas are the oldest books in the library of man. The truths contained in all religions are derived from the Vedas and are ultimately traceable to the Vedas. It is the storehouse of Indian wisdom. The Veda contains the highest spiritual knowledge (Para Vidhya) as well as the knowledge of the world (Apara Vidhya). They give descriptions of various aspects of different subjects such as sciences, medicine, political science, psychology, agriculture, poetry, art, music etc. Lets discuss one by one about all the four Vedas.
Rigveda:
It
is the oldest Veda and “Veda of praising deities”. It consists of two
Sanskrit words Rig and Veda constituting it translates to ‘Praise’ and
‘Knowledge’. They praise early or Vedic-Gods or various elements of nature such as Indra, Agni,
Rudra, Varuna and others. It also deals with philosophical and metaphysical questions such as nature of God, origin of universe, Brahma, Atma. Its priest is called Hotri. The whole of the Rigveda-Samhita is in
form of verses, known as Rik, which means“to
praise”. ‘Rik’ is the name given to those Mantras which are meant
for the praise of deities. Thus, the collection (Samhita) of Riks is
known as Rigveda-Samhita. It is collection of 1,028
hymns (Suktas) and 10,600 verses in all, and organized into ten books which are
called mandalas. Mandalas of Rigveda are composed by poets of different priestly
groups over period of time and reveal the history of Vedic period. Each Mandala is divided
into 85 sections called Anuvakas. Each Anuvaka consists
of a 1028 of hymns called Suktas and each Sukta is
made up of 10552 riks or mantras. Usually Anuvaka is
not mentioned in the reference of a Mantra of the Rigveda. e.g., RV
3.16.7 simply means the seventh Mantra of the sixteenth Sukta of
the third Mandala of Rigveda. According to Rigveda, there are 33 types of Devta (not 33 crore as a common myth). The meaning of word "koti" is "type" and not "crore'' in number. It also explains about Maha Mrityunjaya and Gayantri Mantra. Important Bhashyakar of this Veda are Yasak acharya, Sayan acharya, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, Maharishi Arvind and many western scholars.
Samaveda:
It is
the “Veda of Songs” and shortest of all four Vedas. The verses of
Samaveda should only be sung in specific seven suras and such songs
are called Samagana. It is derived from two sanskrit words, Saman = Song and Veda = knowledge. It served as the principal root of classical
Indian music and dance tradition. The Samaveda in addition to singing and
chanting, mentions instruments and also specific rules and regulations for playing them, so as to preserves the sanctity of those ancient instruments. The
hymns of Samaveda are sung mainly at soma (sacrifice) by special group of Brahmans
called “Udgatris” or “udgat”. This word is derived from Sanskrit udgai (to sing or to chant). The
Samaveda- Samhita of Kauthumas, consists of two parts – the Purvarcika, and the
Uttararcika. First part consists of 650 verses and the second part consists of 1225 verses. So, the total number of
verses in the Samaveda-Samhita is 1875. Among these 1771 Verses are from the
Rigveda. Only 99 verses of this Samhita are absent in Rigveda- Samhita
and thus are generally regarded to be unique to Samveda.
Yajurveda:
It is “Veda of Performing prayers by Sacrifice”.
Yajurveda, of Sanskrit origin, is composed of Yajus=Yajna and Veda=knowledge. Unlike
Samaveda, it was compiled to apply to all sacrificial rites and not merely to the Soma
offering. It was the manual of Adhvaryus, i.e., people who had to practically do all
ritualistic works in a sacrifice. It is classified into Krishna or Black
and Shukla or white Yajurveda, respectively. The Krishna or
Taittiriya shakha is the older book and is characterized by mixture of mantra
and brahmana. Whereas the Sukla or Vajasaneya shakha is a later revelation to
sage Yajnavalkya from resplendent Sun-God.
This text is useful source of information about agriculture and socio-economic life during Vedic era. It refers to acts of worship such as obligations
made into Agni or fire. It preaches
the concept of Prana and Manas also. It
also provides insights into geographical data.
Atharvaveda:
It is the “Veda of Wise and stable-minded person known as Atharvans”. It is mainly composed of two group of rishis known as Atharvans
and the Angiras, hence the older name is Atharv-angrisa. It is written down
much later than the rest of Vedas. It is compilation of 730 hymns containing 5977
mantras, divided into 20 books (kandas). It glorifies the curative power
of herbs and water which helps keeping disease away. It elaborates rituals, sins,
political and philosophical issues. Atharvaveda is the only Veda which is related to both worldly happiness
and spiritual knowledge. Vedic commentator Sayana has praised this for
fulfilling both ends – this world and the other world. Thus, it appears to be
an interesting text for a general reader of the Vedic literature. It contains
numerous Mantras, which according to their subject-matter, can be broadly
divided into three categories: 1. Cure of diseases and
destruction of adverse forces. 2. Establish peace, protection,
health, wealth, friendship and long life. 3. Nature of Supreme
Reality, time, death and immortality. It reflects the life of the Vedic people, their thoughts related to philosophical, social, educational, political, agricultural,
scientific and medical matters.
We have discussed four types of Vedas. Now, we will discuss how each Veda has been further classified into four major texts: Samhita, Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and
Upanishad. The division of Vedas into four parts Samhita (Brahamchari), Brahmanas
(Gristh ashram), Aranyakas (Vanprasth ashram), and Upanishad (Sanyasi) is to
suit the four stages of a man’s life. Based on the subject, Samhita and Brahmana collectively
compose Karma-Kanda. It covers topics related to Karmas (deeds) and Upasanas (oblations).
Rest two, Aranyaka and Upanishads collectively compose Gyana Kanda. It covers
the topic of Gyana (knowledge) and Vigyana (Science). They contain knowledge of
spiritual principles and cosmic laws and elements.
Before discussing them, let's have a bit of concentration
on Shakhas. In ancient times each Veda had many Shakhas. The shakhas are the
editions of the original Vedas, propounded by different rishis. Theses shakhas
are known by the name of these rishis and preserved through the guru shishya teaching.
Ved Vyas re-organised the various shakhas of the Vedas before the advent of
Kaliyuga in order to preserve Veda. Patanjali accepted 21, 100, 1000, and 9 Shakhas of Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Arthvaveda, respectively. However, now only 16 of these shakhas are available. 5 (Shakal, Vashkal, Ashwalayani, Shankhayani, and Mandukayani), 2 (Vaajasanevi/Madhyanidin, and Kanva), 4 (Taittiriya, Maitrayaniya, katha, kapisthala), 3 (Kauthuma, Jaiminiya, and Ranayaniya), 2 (Pippalad, and Shaunak)of Rigveda, Shukla Yajurveda, Krishna Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaved, respectively. But Maharish Dayanand Saraswati has considered 4 shakhas as Veda Samhitas.
These are Shakal Shakha of Rigveda, Vaajasanevi Shakha of Yajurveda, Kauthumiya
Shakha of Samaveda and Shaunak Shakha of Atharveda. Now, Let’s start from what
is Samhita?
Samhita:
Samhita literally means “put
together”, joined, union, a collection and rule-based combination of texts or
verses. Samhita is Sanskrit word from prefix sam meaning ‘together’ and hita
meaning ‘Put’. The basic material or mantra text of each of the Vedas is called
“Samhita”. Some Post-Vedic texts are also known as “Samhitas” such as Ashtavakra
Gita, Bhrigu Samhita, Charaka Samhita, Gheranda Samhita, Brahma Samhita, Deva
Samhita, Garga Samhita, Kashyap Samhita, Shiva Samhita, Brihat Samhita and Yogayajnavalkya
Samhita.
Brahmanas:
It is derived from the root brih ‘to
grow’ and ‘to expand’. In other words,
the name ‘Brahmana’ means the explanation of a ritual of sacrifice by a learned
priest. The Brahmanas are thus the ritual text-books on the details of
sacrifice or Yajna. Brahmanas also explain the hymns in Vedas, their applications and
related stories of their origin. Originally, there were numerous Brahmanas, of which only a few have
survived. Brahmans of
different four Vedas are: Rig-Veda:
Aitreya, Kaushitaki/Shankhayan; Shukla-Yajur-Veda: Shatapatha; Krishna-Yajur-Veda:
Taittiriya, Maitrayaniya, kath, kapisthala; Sam-Veda:
Tandya/Panchvish, Sadhavinsh, Samavidhana, Arsheya, Daivata/Devatadhyaya, Upanishad, Samhitopanishad, Vansha, Jaiminiya; Atharvaveda: Gopath
Aranyakas:
Aranyaka means jungle or forest. It plays the role of the middle path
and help to bridge the gulf between the Karma- kanda and Jnana-kanda.
They describe the secret meaning of sacrifice and the concept of Brahma as
well. These do not lay much emphasis on rites, rituals, and
sacrifices but have philosophy, mysticism and moral science. They also provide
the details of rishis who lived in Jungles. Today only seven
Aranyakas are available. None of these Aranyaka belong to the Atharvaveda. Aranyakas of the Rigveda: Aitareya, Kaushitaki/ Shankhayana; Aranyakas of the Samaveda: Talavakara, Aranyaka of Shukla Yajurveda: Brihadaranyaka; Aranyakas of Krishna
Yajurveda: Taittiriya, Maitrayaniya
Upanishad:
“Upa”
means nearby and “sada” means sit. So, Upanishads contain the knowledge
imparted by the gurus to their disciples. Upanishads, the essence of Vedas,
are Sanskrit texts which explain nature of God, philosophy and meditation. The
concept of Brahman (Ultimate Reality) and Atman (Soul, Self) are central ideas
in all Upanishads. Upanishads, and the Bhagavat Gita are collectively called “Vedanta”
(end of Veda). Bhagavat Gita is a philosophical dialogue between God
Krishna and warrior Arjuna. More than 200 Upanishads are known, of which
the first dozen or so are the oldest and most important and are referred to as
the principal or main (Mukhya Upanishad). Further, though 108 Upanishads are enumerated in the
Muktikopanishad, however, only ten Upanishads from Muktikopanishad, are considered the most
important Upanishads known as ‘Dashopanishad’. These are: Isha,
Kena, Katha, Prashna, Munda, Mandukya, Taittiriya, Aitareya, Chandogya and
Brihadaranyaka.
Besides, Shvetashvatara, Kaushitaki and Maitrayaniya Upanishads are often listed in old Upanishads. There are many Upanishads of different Vedas viz., Rig-Veda: Aitareya, Kaushitaki; Shukla-Yajurveda: Brihadaranyaka, Isa; Krishna-Yajurveda: Taittiriya, Katha, Shvetashvatara, Maitrayaniya; Sam-Veda: Chandogya, Kena; Atharveda: Mundaka, Mandukya, Prasna.
Smriti texts are later vedic literature and are meaningful for the general population only if it favors Shruti. It includes Itihas (History or Epic), Puranas, Dharam
Shastras (Low codes), Darshanas (Manuals of Philosophy), Upvedas, Vedangas, Kavya,
the Bhasya, Agamas, Tantras and Nibhandas (digests) covering politics, ethics,
culture, arts and society. Let’s discuss these one by one…….
Besides, Shvetashvatara, Kaushitaki and Maitrayaniya Upanishads are often listed in old Upanishads. There are many Upanishads of different Vedas viz., Rig-Veda: Aitareya, Kaushitaki; Shukla-Yajurveda: Brihadaranyaka, Isa; Krishna-Yajurveda: Taittiriya, Katha, Shvetashvatara, Maitrayaniya; Sam-Veda: Chandogya, Kena; Atharveda: Mundaka, Mandukya, Prasna.
Darshanas:
In Indian Tradition, the word used for philosophy is Darshana. It has originated from Sanskrit word drish (to
see, to experience). Darshana can be translated as “Point of View”. Drashanas are
Hindu scared texts that consists of varying attempts to develop and systematize
the Vedas. The goal of Darshanas is to remove ignorance and its effects
of pain and sufferings. The attainment of freedom, perfection and eternal bliss
by the union of the individual soul or Jivatman with the supreme soul or Paramatman. These are also called the Astik (orthodox) philosophical traditions that accept the Vedas as an authority. Ancient and medieval India was also the source of shared philosophical concepts that rejected the Vedas, and these have been called nastika (heterodox or non-orthodox). Nastika Indian philosophies include Buddhism, Jainism, Carvaka, Ajvika, and others. There are six branches of Hindu philosophy that forms the core of the Hindu philosophical system viz., Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Purva Mimansa and Vedanta. The period in which six branches came into vogue is called golden period of Hinduism.
1. Nyaya: It was written by Gautama rishi. It deals with formal reasoning, logic, theology, and Metaphysics. Nyaya Sutra, the foundational text of this school, sheds light on topics pertaining to logic and reasoning. This darshana believes in a God who is full of bliss and knowledge and accepts the theory of rebirth.
2. Vaiseshika: It is the Atomic Philosophy of Sage Kannada. It deals with philosophical as well as metaphysical issues. It postulates matter in the physical world to be eventually made up of Parmanu (atoms). However, this school also postulates that Dharma leads to Salvation. Its postulates are contained in the Vaisesika-sutra of Kannada.
3. Samkhya Sutra: It was written by sage Kapila. It is the oldest of the organized school of Indian philosophy. As per this school, the universe comprises of two fundamental entities.-the Purusha (Consciousness-person) and Prakriti (Nature). Prakriti comprises the three Gunas-Sattva (based on knowledge, illuminance, goodness, compassion, positivity). Rajas (based on activity, passion, impulsiveness), and Tamas (based on ignorance, inaction, negativity), lethargy, and destruction). All three Gunas are present in different proportions of different life forms. These Gunas define character of a living being and leads to pleasure or pain.
2. Vaiseshika: It is the Atomic Philosophy of Sage Kannada. It deals with philosophical as well as metaphysical issues. It postulates matter in the physical world to be eventually made up of Parmanu (atoms). However, this school also postulates that Dharma leads to Salvation. Its postulates are contained in the Vaisesika-sutra of Kannada.
3. Samkhya Sutra: It was written by sage Kapila. It is the oldest of the organized school of Indian philosophy. As per this school, the universe comprises of two fundamental entities.-the Purusha (Consciousness-person) and Prakriti (Nature). Prakriti comprises the three Gunas-Sattva (based on knowledge, illuminance, goodness, compassion, positivity). Rajas (based on activity, passion, impulsiveness), and Tamas (based on ignorance, inaction, negativity), lethargy, and destruction). All three Gunas are present in different proportions of different life forms. These Gunas define character of a living being and leads to pleasure or pain.
4. Yoga: It was written by Patanjali. It describes, through practice of Yoga, a person can develop both physical and spiritual strength in life. It emanates from Patanjali's ''Yoga Sutra". Like Samkhya, it does not derive its authority from Vedas. It rather believes the cosmos to be a result of interaction between Purusha and Prakriti and that there is existence of three Gunas. While in the Samkhya system, liberation is achieved by Prakriti (nature) enlightening the Purusha, in Yoga system, Purursha is not mere spectator and by personal effort and practical action, Purusha can attain its own liberation. The Ashtanga Yoga, as propounded by Patanjali, is the mean to such liberation. It consists of 8 limbs:Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayam, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Yama is practicing Ahimsa, Brahmcharya and stay away from Asatya, Aparigraha (greed) and Asatya (acquisition). Niyama is discipline and observance of rules of simplicity, austerity and purity. Asana relates to physical postures and exercises. Pranayama relates to control on breathing and mind. Pranayam and Asana are collectively known as Hatha Yoga. Pratyahara is withdrawal of consciousness/mind from sensory objects. Dharana and Dhayana is Concentration and Meditation and Samadhi is the state of union of self with universe or Kaivalya. Yoga is recognized by the Hindu philosophy to be categorized as Raja Yoga, Jnana, Karma and Bhakti Yoga.
5. Purva Mimansa: The philosophy of Purva Mimansa or Mimansa is contained in the Purva Mimansa Sutra of Jamini. The words Purva (former) and Mimansa (inquiry) refer to the former part of the Vedas, i.e., to the Samhita and the Brahmanas or the Karmkand. Thus, this school of philosophy is based on the teachings of Vedas as contained in Samhitas and Brahmanas. It considers the Vedas to be eternal and infallible and emphasizes on Mantras and rituals as prescribed in Vedas, as of being of primary importance, while the Upanishads were considered to be of secondary importance. Its philosophy concerns more with Dharma and duties of a person or Karya rather than metaphysical knowledge. This school also helped in development of philosophy of language, linguistics and philology which influenced other schools too.
6. Vedanta: The word ''Vedanta'' literally means the "End of Vedas". The philosophy of this School is based on the teachings contained in the concluding portion of Vedas, viz., the Upanishads. It is also referred as Uttar Mimansa (or latter inquiry) as opposed to Purva Mimansa. The Vedantic philosophy is expressed in its classical form in the Vedant Sutras or the Brahmsutras of Badrayana which is a akin to a synopsis of the teachings of Upanishads. This Philosophy emphasized on Jnana (or knowledge) and explored metaphysical subjects like Brahma, Atman (Soul), etc. It laid greater stress on acquisition of true knowledge and spiritual development rather than rituals and sacrifices. The Vedanta school branched out into separate sub-schools based on their philosophies of dualism to monism. Some of these schools are Branches of Vedanta as described below:
Advaita Vedanta: Advaita literally means 'no two' or sole or unity. Thus, this school of philosophy is based on principle of monoism or unitism that all creation is a reflection of the supreme. Thus, soul was not a separate entity from the Brahman but only its manifestation. Sri Adi Shankarachrya (8th century CE) consolidated the principles of Advaita Vedanta and structured the philosophy into a formal shape.
Vishist Advaita: It was propounded by Ramanuja (15th Century CE). It does not consider Jivatama (soul-living being) to be the reflection of the Brahma, unlike Advaita school. It does not accept Brahma to be without attributes (Nirgun). Thus brahma is sagun.
Dvaita: Madhavacharya (13th century) was propounder of this school. it considers Brahma and Atma to be two distinct entities. It emphasizes on bhakti as a means of salvation for the soul.
Bheda-abheda: The word Bheda-abheda literally means ''difference and no difference''. it propounds that brahman and jivatama are distinct but not different from each other. Bhaskara and Nimbakara were important teachers of this school.
Neo-Vedanta: This modern interpretation of Vedanta emerged in the 19th and 20th century. It is result of thinkers and philosophers like Sri Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Sri Ramakrishna and others. It is founded on the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta of Shankaracharya but emphasize on universal realism instead of universal illusionism.
5. Purva Mimansa: The philosophy of Purva Mimansa or Mimansa is contained in the Purva Mimansa Sutra of Jamini. The words Purva (former) and Mimansa (inquiry) refer to the former part of the Vedas, i.e., to the Samhita and the Brahmanas or the Karmkand. Thus, this school of philosophy is based on the teachings of Vedas as contained in Samhitas and Brahmanas. It considers the Vedas to be eternal and infallible and emphasizes on Mantras and rituals as prescribed in Vedas, as of being of primary importance, while the Upanishads were considered to be of secondary importance. Its philosophy concerns more with Dharma and duties of a person or Karya rather than metaphysical knowledge. This school also helped in development of philosophy of language, linguistics and philology which influenced other schools too.
6. Vedanta: The word ''Vedanta'' literally means the "End of Vedas". The philosophy of this School is based on the teachings contained in the concluding portion of Vedas, viz., the Upanishads. It is also referred as Uttar Mimansa (or latter inquiry) as opposed to Purva Mimansa. The Vedantic philosophy is expressed in its classical form in the Vedant Sutras or the Brahmsutras of Badrayana which is a akin to a synopsis of the teachings of Upanishads. This Philosophy emphasized on Jnana (or knowledge) and explored metaphysical subjects like Brahma, Atman (Soul), etc. It laid greater stress on acquisition of true knowledge and spiritual development rather than rituals and sacrifices. The Vedanta school branched out into separate sub-schools based on their philosophies of dualism to monism. Some of these schools are Branches of Vedanta as described below:
Advaita Vedanta: Advaita literally means 'no two' or sole or unity. Thus, this school of philosophy is based on principle of monoism or unitism that all creation is a reflection of the supreme. Thus, soul was not a separate entity from the Brahman but only its manifestation. Sri Adi Shankarachrya (8th century CE) consolidated the principles of Advaita Vedanta and structured the philosophy into a formal shape.
Vishist Advaita: It was propounded by Ramanuja (15th Century CE). It does not consider Jivatama (soul-living being) to be the reflection of the Brahma, unlike Advaita school. It does not accept Brahma to be without attributes (Nirgun). Thus brahma is sagun.
Dvaita: Madhavacharya (13th century) was propounder of this school. it considers Brahma and Atma to be two distinct entities. It emphasizes on bhakti as a means of salvation for the soul.
Bheda-abheda: The word Bheda-abheda literally means ''difference and no difference''. it propounds that brahman and jivatama are distinct but not different from each other. Bhaskara and Nimbakara were important teachers of this school.
Neo-Vedanta: This modern interpretation of Vedanta emerged in the 19th and 20th century. It is result of thinkers and philosophers like Sri Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Sri Ramakrishna and others. It is founded on the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta of Shankaracharya but emphasize on universal realism instead of universal illusionism.
Epics:
Great national epics of India are
Ramayana which is created by Maharishi Valmiki and Mahabharta
which is attributed to Maharishi Vyas.
Puranas:
Puranas are vast genre of
Hindu texts that covers wide range of topics, particularly about
the universe from its creation to destruction and about Kings, sages, demigods,
philosophy, cosmology and traditional stories. The content is highly inconsistent
across the Puranas, and each Purana has survived through numerous manuscripts which are
themselves inconsistent. They are also attributed to Maharishi Ved Vyasa. There
are 18 Maha Puranas (Major Puranas) and 18 Upa Puranas (Minor Puranas).
Shastras:
Shastra texts were
compilations of technical or specialized knowledge in a defined area. e.g.,
Dharamshastra (law books), Bhutikashastra (Physics), Rasayanashastra (Chemistry),
Jivashastra (Biology), Vastushastra (Architectural Science), Shilpashastra (Science
of Sculpture), Arthashastra (Economics), Nitishastra (Political Science).
Agamas and Tantra:
Agama is the name for sacred scriptures which
are closely aligned with the Vedas but have their own distinct language,
structure and philosophy (Nigama is another name of Veda. Nigama also means the final truth or conclusion after applying all logics to counter all the objections). Agamas are
theological treatises and practical manuals of divine worship. They include
tantras, mantras and yantras. Mantra is the energy or protecting word which protect the one who chants.
Yantras are geometric shapes that define the workings of various kinds of
energies. A yantra is a geometrical diagram engraved on a plate of gold, silver
or copper. Tantra
deals with the philosophy and methods for redirecting and channelizing the
energies to guide the spiritual evolution of sadhaka. These treatises explain the external worship of God. All seventy-seven
Agamas contain teachings on (i) jnana or knowledge, (ii) yoga or concentration,
(iii) kriya or action, and (iv) charya or doing. They also give elaborate
details about the ontology, cosmology, liberation, devotion, meditation,
philosophy of mantras, mystic diagrams, charms and spells, temple-building,
image-making, domestic observances, social rules and public festivals. The
Agamas are divided into three sections: Vaishnava, Shaiva and Shakta. The
Vaishnava Agamas glorify God as Vishnu. The Shaiva Agamas glorify God as Shiva
and have given rise to an important school of philosophy known as Shaiva
Siddhanta. The Agamas do not derive their authority from the Vedas, but they
are all vedic in spirit and character. That is the reason why they are regarded
as authoritative.
Tantra is technically Shakta Agamas, which worships and regards the
Divine Mother (Shakti) as supreme Godhead.
Vedangas:
Vedangas
are six auxiliary disciplines associated with the study and understanding of
the Vedas. These are known as limbs of Veda. They perform various supportive
and augmenting functions in the study, preservation, and protection of Vedas
and Vedic traditions. They include:
1. Shiksha Vedanga: It is nose of Veda Purusha. It is science of right pronunciation
of Samhita text. The oldest Granth related to this is Pratishakya.
2. Kalpa Vedanga: It is also called two arms of Veda Purusha It is related to the legislation
of various Vedic yajna. It consists of four types of texts which have been
created in sutra form, so are called Kalpsutra. As, the time passed, many new social customs were developed and were collected in a new book known as Sutra. Sutra (thread) is a any short rule around which teaching of ritual, philosophy, grammar, or any field of knowledge can be woven. These are:
2.1 Shraut-Sutra:
deals with various Yajna (Karmkanda) which is beneficial for whole human race.
2.2 Grihya-Sutra:
deals with Yajna by house-holder for prosperous life.
2.3 Dharam-Sutra:
deals with the social, political, public, and religious rules and laws. Smriti
or Dharam-Shastra are derivative of Dharam-Sutra
2.4 Sulba-Sutra:
deals with rules of measurement of the fire-altars (Hawan Kund). It is the oldest texts of Geometery.
3. Vyakaran Vedanga: Formation of the word is the main subject
of grammar. It discusses root (Prakriti) and suffix (Prataya)
of words to study its meaning. It is mouth of Veda Purusha. The most celebrated
author of vyakarana is Panini. The famous Vyakarn Vedang of Panini is called
Asthadyayi.
4.
Nirukta Vedanga: It
explains the reason why a particular word has been used i.e., the meaning of
usage. It explains origin of words. The only work which has survived as a
specimen of this Vedanga ‘etymology’ is the Nirukta of Yaska. It is a
commentary on Nighantu which is ‘list of words’ found in the
Vedas. It is the ears of Veda Purusha. These sutras describe the formation of the words of the
Vedic samhita which could be used along with the Nighantu and
the Nirukta. Nighantu is the special dictionary of the words of the
Vedic samhita, and Nirukta is the main book that gives further
detail of the words of the Vedas which is like a detailed dictionary of the
Vedic words. Thus, even though the ancient Vedic grammar is not available,
still, with the help of the Ashtadhyayi and
the Nirukt, the true meaning of the Vedic words could be understood. But
if someone tries to draw the meaning of the Vedic mantras only
on the basis of the Ashtadhyayi without using the unadi sutras and
the Nirukta, he will get the incorrect meaning of the mantras and
that’s what the European translators have done.
5. Chandas
(meter): The Chandas is derived from the root chad (to cover). It is designed
for the purpose of securing the proper reading and reciting of Vedic texts. It
is two feet of Veda Purusha. E.g., Chandas-sutras of Pingala
6. Jyotisha
(Astrology): The object of
Jyotisha Vedanga is not to teach astronomy, but to convey such knowledge of the
heavenly bodies as is necessary for fixing the days and hours of the Vedic
sacrifices. It gives some rules for calculating and fixing time for sacrifices. It
is two eyes of Veda Purusha. It is unfortunate that there is no work available
at present dealing with ancient Vedic astronomy (Jyotisha) in the
Sutra style. Only we have a small text-book called Jyotisha of
Vedic astronomy in verses in two recessions. Generally, Maharshi Lagadha is
regarded author of this Vedanga Jyotisha. This is a very difficult text and,
therefore, is not clear on several points to scholars even today. Bhaskaracharya, Varahamihira and Aryabhatta are known ancient scholars
conversant with these scientific subjects. The principles established by them
are in use in the modern world.
Upaveda:
Upaveda (up means subsidiary) means
applied knowledge and are traditional literature which contain the subjects of
certain technical works. They are as follows:
Ayurveda: Deals with longevity and medicine and associated with Rigveda. But, according to Shusutra, Ayurveda is upveda of Atharvaveda. The main texts of this life science are Sushruta, Charak and Vagbbhatt Samhita. Ayurveda deals with medicine and health. The originator of Ayurveda is supposed to be Lord Dhanwantari.
Dhanurveda: Deals in Archery, defense and associated with the Yajurveda.
Ghandarvavveda: Deals with Music, Dance and associated with the Samaveda.
Sthapathyaveda/Shilpveda: Deals with architecture and associated with Yajurveda.
Arthaveda: Deals with science of sociology, economics, and political system related to Rigveda.
Ayurveda: Deals with longevity and medicine and associated with Rigveda. But, according to Shusutra, Ayurveda is upveda of Atharvaveda. The main texts of this life science are Sushruta, Charak and Vagbbhatt Samhita. Ayurveda deals with medicine and health. The originator of Ayurveda is supposed to be Lord Dhanwantari.
Dhanurveda: Deals in Archery, defense and associated with the Yajurveda.
Ghandarvavveda: Deals with Music, Dance and associated with the Samaveda.
Sthapathyaveda/Shilpveda: Deals with architecture and associated with Yajurveda.
Arthaveda: Deals with science of sociology, economics, and political system related to Rigveda.
According to my research, this is a brief about all Hindu scriptures. When I came to know about these texts, I was like 😅😅😵😲🙇. I could not understand from where I should start, as I cannot read Sanskrit language and have no idea about Vedanga, So, I am unable to read Samhita, Brahmana, and Aranyaka directly. Then I decided to start my journey with Manusmiriti because first, it is a Dharamshastra and second, it is the oldest smiriti. It is easy to understand law codes rather than philoshophy. Looking at above chart, I have decided to start reading Asthanghridyam because I have immense interest in ayurveda and always try to keep myself healthy and fit. Other texts which I have decided to read are Valmiki Ramayana and Mahabharata, to understand the root of these epics. Then, before reaching to any part of Shruti, I will read Bhashya of Vedas written specifically by Indian Bhashyakar. Bhashya is exposition of any primary and secondary text and it contains meaning of verses and also gist, essence, summary, extract of verses. I have started my journey which is in progress. I will share information with you people from time to time.
I hope, this information will help you all in your life's journey towards Vedic study.
Feel blessed to gain a single drop of gyan (Knowledge) instead of acquiring materialistic things. We should spend money for needs not wants, similarly, we should spend time on learning and not gossping.
Take care you all !!!
Your's Well wishers
Purnima Ghai
References:
http://vedicheritage.gov.in/about-project/
http://www.allresearchjournal.com/archives/2016/vol2issue6/PartC/2-5-122-406.pdf
Book: Indian Heritage art and Culture
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy
https://www.sutori.com/story/yoga-history-timeline--JjCji6sfebXEyY3kwqL5g3Rf
Other Accounts:
https://in.pinterest.com/bhoomiphd83/
https://www.instagram.com/
https://twitter.com/explore
I hope, this information will help you all in your life's journey towards Vedic study.
Feel blessed to gain a single drop of gyan (Knowledge) instead of acquiring materialistic things. We should spend money for needs not wants, similarly, we should spend time on learning and not gossping.
Take care you all !!!
Your's Well wishers
Purnima Ghai
References:
http://vedicheritage.gov.in/about-project/
http://www.allresearchjournal.com/archives/2016/vol2issue6/PartC/2-5-122-406.pdf
Book: Indian Heritage art and Culture
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_philosophy
https://www.sutori.com/story/yoga-history-timeline--JjCji6sfebXEyY3kwqL5g3Rf
Other Accounts:
https://in.pinterest.com/bhoomiphd83/
https://www.instagram.com/
https://twitter.com/explore
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